Stomach polyps, also known as gastric polyps, are abnormal growths of cells on the inner lining of the stomach. They vary in size and shape and are often discovered incidentally during medical examinations.
What Are Stomach Polyps?
Stomach polyps are small, raised growths found on the stomach’s inner surface. They typically arise from the topmost epithelial layer of the stomach, though some types can originate from deeper layers. These growths are common and frequently do not cause noticeable symptoms, leading to their often accidental discovery during examinations for other conditions. While many stomach polyps are benign, their characteristics can vary, influencing their potential health implications.
Types of Stomach Polyps and Their Health Implications
The significance of stomach polyps depends on their specific type, as each carries different health implications, particularly regarding cancer risk.
Fundic gland polyps are the most frequently encountered type in the stomach. These typically appear as small, smooth bumps in the upper stomach and are often benign with little to no cancerous potential. Their presence is sometimes linked to the regular use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), medications that reduce stomach acid.
Hyperplastic polyps are the second most common type, often associated with chronic stomach inflammation (gastritis) or Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. These polyps usually have a low risk of becoming cancerous, but larger ones, especially those exceeding 1 centimeter (2/5 of an inch) in diameter, carry a slightly increased risk and may require closer monitoring.
Adenomatous polyps, while less common, are considered the most concerning type due to their high potential for malignant transformation into stomach cancer. These polyps are frequently solitary and require careful attention.
Inflammatory fibroid polyps are a rare type of growth that typically originates from the submucosal tissue layer of the stomach, beneath the lining. These lesions are generally benign, characterized by a mix of vascular fibrous tissue and inflammatory cells. They are usually an incidental finding with no significant cancerous potential.
Identifying and Addressing Stomach Polyps
Many stomach polyps do not produce symptoms and are often detected incidentally during an upper endoscopy. However, if polyps grow larger or cause complications, some individuals may experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or internal bleeding, which could lead to anemia. If these symptoms occur, medical evaluation is important.
The diagnosis of stomach polyps typically involves an upper endoscopy, where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the stomach. During this procedure, a doctor can visualize the stomach lining and take tissue samples (biopsies) from any suspicious growths. These samples are then examined under a microscope to determine the polyp type and assess its potential for malignancy.
Management strategies for stomach polyps vary based on their type, size, and associated risk. For small, benign polyps, a “watchful waiting” approach may be adopted, involving periodic monitoring. Larger polyps or those identified as having a higher risk of becoming cancerous, such as adenomatous polyps, are typically removed during an endoscopic procedure. If the polyps are linked to underlying conditions like H. pylori infection or chronic inflammation, addressing these root causes, such as antibiotic treatment for H. pylori, may also be part of the management plan. Anyone experiencing persistent digestive symptoms or who has concerns about their stomach health should consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and guidance.